OPS 1216 Rape and Sexual Assault Investigations
Purpose
To provide specific and consistent guidelines for the investigation of rape and sexual offense complaints.
Summary
The Harford County Sheriff's Office (HCSO) will thoroughly and aggressively investigate all complaints of rape or sexual assault against victims sixteen (16) years of age or older. It will be the responsibility of the Criminal Investigations Division (CID) Major Case Unit (MCU) to conduct follow-up investigations of all rape and felony sexual offenses involving victims sixteen (16) years of age or older. Sexual assault complaints involving victims fifteen (15) years of age or younger will be investigated by the Harford County Child Advocacy Center (CAC). The initial patrol deputy will handle all 4th degree sex offenses, with the possible exception of those involving sexual child abuse and vulnerable adult abuse. These crimes may be assigned to either the CAC or the MCU after review by those respective units. The preliminary investigation of a suspected rape or sexual offense, other than 4th degree, requires the on-scene supervision of a patrol supervisor of at least the rank of Corporal.
